Mindfulness Training & Emotional Development Exercises & Courses

Social skills, emotional regulation, and mindfulness are rarely taught in the classroom. Although some students pick up on these skills passively in their environment, others require direct instruction. Discussions and fun activities can help to develop their emotional intelligence and self-awareness, while also improving social interactions.

Good Sensory Learning is now featuring a suite of social-emotional products by both Dr. Erica Warren and Elizabeth Kemler, M.S.Ed.

What is Social Emotional Development?

Social Emotional Development is the process by which children learn to understand, express, and manage emotions. It includes many skills such as developing the self concept, emotional regulation, peer relations, identity formation, self-awareness, compassion and more. It also involves the awareness and control of ones inner voice and visualizations. For example, if a child gets agitated and annoyed about an assignment, they can learn emotional strategies that will help them to get back on task so they can finish the assignment. They can also learn how to advocate and reach out to others for assistance.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is being aware of the present moment and inner experiences in a nonjudgemental way. It teaches students how to manage and control attention by using the inner voice and visualizations. Furthermore, mindfulness is a tools that develops emotional intelligence, positive social interactions, and the management of stress.

Why is Social Emotional Development and Mindfulness Important?

In recent years, we have seen a large rise in depression and anxiety in school aged children. Students of all ages are exposed to online bullying, academic competition, rising academic standards, as well as more tests and homework. In addition, many parents report that their kids don't have enough down time, and they are not getting enough sleep. Furthermore, our youngsters attention is constantly taxed and derailed by their phones and other devices. As the world changes at a fast rate, we too need to alter our approaches so that we can provide our children the tools they need to manage the ever changing demands. Helping students to stay calm, understand and manage their emotions, read social cues, communicate effectively, change and utilize their inner voice, activate both hemispheres of their brain and approach life in a centered and mindful way will help them to have successful and peaceful lives.